Some people have high cholesterol even though they eat a healthy diet and keep to an adequate exercise regime. One reason for this may be the presence of Familial hyperlipidaemia (F.H.). This, and some other reasons, have necessitated the use of drugs in the control of blood cholesterol.
Drug therapy may include cholesterol-lowering drugs such as
- Statins: these are regarded as the best drug for cholesterol control. It comes under brand names like Lipitor, pravacol, and mevacor. You can find good sources of these online.
- Resins (bile acid sequestrants): brands include cholestid, and welchol.
- Niacin or nicotinic acid: this is considered helpful in the fight against cholesterol, but such claims have not been verified by some regulatory agencies like the F.D.A.
- Aspirin or anticoagulants: their role is to prevent formation of blood clots in the blood vessels, especially the arteries in delicate organs like the brain (which could result to a stroke, or dementia).
- Antihypertensive medication to lower blood pressure: these are very popular. Discuss with your doctor to find out the best one for you.
- Fibrates: fibre plays an important role in the management of blood cholesterol levels. Fibrates are dietary fibre supplements. They are quite effective for those with high levels of HDL (good cholesterol). Brand names include tricol, bezalip, lopid, e.t.c.
Some side effects of taking these drugs include sore muscles, digestive upset (this may be constipation or cramps) reduced sexual desire, dizziness, and heart burn.
Special note: self medication is not something you will want to do. Please discuss these remedies with your doctor to help you select the most suitable one for your situation. There are factor to be considered when taking cholesterol reducing drugs: family history, age, blood pressure, and over all health.